I’m stepping into summer with goodies for the entire family. They will excite the tastebuds, keep you hydrated, and make you a star at the cookout. Stock up and bring on the excitement. Hello June!
Mary Alice Cakes Perfect White Cake Mix
I love this easy-to-use cake mix. It turns out moist and scrumptious. Pair the white dessert with fresh strawberries for a tasty summertime treat. Family approved. Also available in chocolate.
Get your morning boost with this refreshing beverage. I like the fizz with its burst of ginger and the familiar taste of lightly sweetened, cold-brewed black tea. Delightful drink. Also available in Grapefruit Clarity and Cucumber Focus.
Retail price: $29.99 (case of 12)
Size: 12 oz.
Available: https://kombuchatown.com
Utopia Market Quinoa Puffs African Curry
I cannot get enough of these mini puffs. They pack layers of flavor with a hint of heat. The crunchy snack smells like a spice market. Yummy and addicting!
Retail price: $1.99
Size: 4.58 oz.
Available: Aldi Grocery Stores
Feridies Rainforest Crunch
Can’t travel right now? Experience a tropical paradise in a can. The roasted nuts complement the dried pineapple and papaya, offering a wonderful savory-sweet combination. The lip-smacking coconut chips add a nice finishing touch. Then, the nut-blend hits my palate with sriracha ranch seasoning. Out-of-sight!
I enjoy these made-to-order meal kits for kids. They include fresh ingredients that are 100 percent organic, bitesize and good. The do-it-yourself lunches come in three varieties: Pizza Pack, Taco Kit, and SB&J Builder. Convenient. Healthy. Fun. Smoothies are also available. Highly recommend.
Retail price: $6.99
Size: about 12 oz.
Available: https://feelsunnie.com/ (Currently ships to California, Arizona, Nevada, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, New Mexico, and Colorado)
Foster’s Pickled Asparagus Original
Eat these delectable vegetables straight from the jar. They sit in a tangy brine that reminds me of traditional pickle juice. I like them so much I’m going to up my charcuterie board game with them. Pickled perfectly! Also available in pickled carrots, green beans, brussels sprouts and okra.
The Single Origin Food Company Vegan Un-Honey Blonde
Made from unblended organic coconut nectar from the farms of Pylpongpang, Thailand, this smooth sugary condiment blooms on the tongue. It gives me honey vibes. I barely notice the difference between the real thing. It tastes great in tea and oatmeal. I’m a fan!
Retail price: $6.99
Size: 8 oz.
Available: Sprouts Farmers Market nationwide and https://plantx.com
Rekaya, aka The Food Temptress, is a freelance journalist, author and co-host of the sports podcast “Black Girls Talk Sports.” She has written content for Amtrak, Writer’s Digest Books and various lifestyle magazines. She also has penned seven books in multiple genres. In her spare time, she enjoys developing recipes and exploring Virginia’s 200+ wineries.